LOCKDOWN seems to have encouraged demand for new imaginative garden sculptures, according to one local artist.

Cumbrian sculpture expert, Andrew Kay, specialises in beautiful, hand-welded wildlife sculptures made from solid mild steel. He has seen an increase in demand because of the lockdown.

He has also noticed a change in customers’ tastes when it comes to the sculpture designs being ordered.

Andrew Kay said: “As a result of lockdown, our customers have been working in and enjoying their gardens more.

“They are planning new landscaping schemes and are looking at ways to enhance their gardens and grounds this summer.

“For those fortunate to still have work, and whose household spending is down, it may be easier to justify the purchase of a sculpture.

“I try to capture the unique character and anatomy of different types of wildlife native to Britain, with each evocative of a particular mood or feeling. The style of sculptures which have been popular during lockdown are certainly more tranquil and reflective in tone than usual. This seems to mirror the way people are feeling.

“There is a definite taste for sculptures with a calming feel.

“This period of time represents a unique set of circumstances which many people want to mark and remember. As has been frequently discussed, this moment is also a chance for us all to hit the ‘reset button’ and hopefully keep it pressed.

“So, we humans can generate in various degrees a more respectful, optimistic, and generous society, where we can all play our part in giving back to each other and the wonderful world we live upon.”

During May 2020, business turnover increased 200 percent year on year. It also showed no signs of slowing.

The vast majority of orders came from residential customers looking to add wildlife sculptures to their gardens and have come from across the UK.

Andrew Kay Sculpture is an award-winning business based in Cumbria.

The business was founded by Andrew in 1993 to make original, handmade, stunningly beautiful wildlife sculptures from solid mild steel.

Andrew creates his sculptures alongside his wife Anneley and three Labradors in Beckside Studio, a converted barn set in the wild hills of his native Cumbria. The work of Andrew Kay Sculpture can be seen gracing landscapes throughout the world.